Waiting is a hard thing to do.  I am writing this on Tuesday and the situation may very well have changed by the time you are reading this - and I hope and pray it has!

            Many of you are aware that last Monday, my Mom suffered a massive stroke.  Although she is a "mature" 90 years of age (she always said she was "mature," not "old"), my Mom was vital and full of energy up until the moment it happened.  The good news is that I don't believe she was aware that it had happened, and since then, although she is unresponsive, she is comfortable and at peace.  Just sleeping. 

            At first, the doctors in ICU told her she would most likely have only two hours to about two days.  We transferred her to a wonderful hospice unit at Christiana Hospital where she has been receiving very compassionate care, including visits from a young woman who is a music therapist - she played (on a guitar) and sang "On Eagle's Wings," "When Irish Eyes are Smiling" (yes, my Mom is Irish) and several other selections that caused all of us to tear up, but in a GOOD way.

            Many of you know that my sister and I have five stepsisters.  We consider ourselves to be seven sisters.  My sister and I have been alternating spending the nights with my Mom.  Throughout the day and evening, however, all of my "other" sisters along with their spouses, the grandchildren, friends, neighbors and anyone else who happens to wants to join the gathering is there as well.  My Mom was always someone who loved a party, and there is a party going on every day in her room.  My sisters have even made sure that my Mom's hair is fixed, she is wearing earrings and lipstick, and that her nails are done.  The other day, I said, "I'm pretty sure Mom isn't going anywhere because there's too much fun in this room - she doesn't want to miss the party!"

            Of course, I have mixed feelings.  My Mom has come to the end of her life on this earth and I am just waiting for the Lord to take her home.  And I hope and pray that will happen soon.  On the other hand, the grief is hard to bear.  But the ongoing celebration of a life well lived brings joy to my heart. 

            So thank you for all of your thoughts and prayers.  As hard as it is to wait for someone you love to go home to God, we give thanks for God's promise of an eternal home where there will be no more pain, no more illness, no more tears, and no more death. 

                                                                                    

Pastor Janice

PRAYER PARTNERS FOR CHILDREN

Would you like your child to participate in a new Prayer Partner program in Children's Ministry?  We'd like to pair interested children with an adult in the congregation so they can pray for one another.  Partners will receive a picture of the person they are praying for along with specific requests for prayers.  Once we have a list of interested children, we'll begin matching them with members of the congregation.  Prayer partners will run from November 1 - February 1 at which time we will schedule a fun event for the children and their partners to attend together.

REGISTER YOUR CHILD HERE

Thank you to all who supported the ASP Team at our Annual Stockholder's Luncheon

Sunday October 8th.

Daring Faith

Times to choose from:  

Beginning Tuesday, October 17

10AM in the Parlor    

Leader:  Pastor Janice

Beginning Wednesday, October 18

7PM in the Parlor    Leader: Ruth Portzline - CLM

 

Daring faith requires taking risk. It requires the courage to step up and face the giants . . . and to face the unknown. It might be easier to stay in your comfort zone, but when you bravely step out to where God has called you, history is made and lives are changed forever. You must be bold and daring to live an extraordinary life of faith.

 

Learn what it means to have a bold, unshakable faith that gives you the courage to impact the world around you.

 

Cost of participants guide is $10.00 

Sign Up for Daring Faith

Music at St. John's

  Music is an integral part of the Worship experience at 

St. John's United Methodist Church.  Our Choirs and Worship Team provide exceptional music that enhances the Worship Services each week.  There is an opportunity for EVERYONE in our congregation to participate in the Music Ministry.  We encourage you to become part of one of our Choirs.

Handbell and Vocal Choirs